Tag: Montepulciano

The Italian Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC lies in the Abruzzi region and features wines produced using the Montepulciano varietal. One should be careful not to confuse them with those of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG in Tuscany which are Sangiovese based.

Generally, these wines are very moderately priced. They are, in large measure, somewhat rustic in a rough and ready sort of way, but mostly pretty good sipping wines that stand up well to hearty foods. This particular selection, though a bit more expensive than many, is a decent representative of the type…

The pertinent details are:

Winery: Podere Castorani SRL

Price: $21.55 CDN

Alcohol: 13.5%

Sugar: 4.3 g/L

The color here is a dark cherry red that is very attractive but, unfortunately, of teeth-staining strength,. It has a medium nose with red berry, candied fruit and a bit of spice, while the body is full with a velvety texture. It is off dry with some residual sweetness, moderate acidity and smooth tannins that develop into a nice astringency near the end. Slightly tart red fruit forms the base and there are strong notes of pepper and an earthy, vegetal quality. The finish is a bit short but ends with a really nice tobacco note. All in all, it is pleasing and eminently drinkable.